Martinrea receives exemption

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By Matt Durr

Hillsdale.net - Hillsdale, MI

By Matt Durr

Posted Apr. 19, 2013 at 9:39 AM

By Matt Durr
Posted Apr. 19, 2013 at 9:39 AM

Hillsdale, Mich.

matt.durr@hillsdale.net

JONESVILLE — As Martinrea Jonesville LLC continues its growth and expansion in the county, the Jonesville Village Council continued to show its support of the business by granting a 12-year Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate during Wednesday’s village meeting.

“With assistance of the village and from Adam (Smith, village manager), it’s been real good. We’re back again to see if we can get some help,” said Martinrea Director Pete Bertolini.

Martinrea is in the process of making equipment investments of more than $23 million and will be creating 15 more jobs at the Jonesville plant, bringing the total amount of employees in Jonesville to around 665 employees. Martinrea has also announced plans to begin production at a plant in North Adams, which expects to add 120 jobs. That plant should begin production in September.

Jonesville Village President Bob Snow thanked Bertolil for approaching council and for Martinrea’s continued efforts in Jonesville.

“We appreciate your investment in our community,” Snow said. “We hope this all continues well for us, you and our community.”

A public hearing was held prior to council voting on passing of the resolution granting the exemption, but no member’s of the public weighed in on the issue.

Council also voted Wednesday night to extend the moratorium regarding the establishment of businesses engaged in the cultivation, manufacture, dispensation and distribution of medical marijuana. The decision to continue to moratorium was made at the recommendation of Village Lawyer, John Lovinger, who cited recent legislation banning dispensaries of medical marijuana. The moratorium was unanimously approved and extended until Oct. 18.

Hillsdale County Clerk Marney Kast spoke to remind council about the ballot process going forward as the village moves toward cityhood. Kast said those interested in running for office have until May 14 to turn in petitions for their candidacy, The petitions require 20 signature of registered voters, but Kast suggested getting somewhere near 30 in case those who sign are not registered voters.

Once it becomes a city, Jonesville must elect a mayor and at least four people to council for a quorum and if the other four council seats are not elected, the five elected spots may appoint the remaining four seats.